To provide students with competence in reading, writing, listening and speaking Portuguese at a basic level;

To provide students with a sound understanding of basic aspects of Portuguese grammar;

To develop students' language learning strategies and a reflective approach towards language learning;

To explore aspects of contemporary Portuguese-speaking culture through the medium of Portuguese.

(LO1) Apply basic reading, writing, speaking and listening skills in Portuguese.

(LO2) Communicate in Portuguese in everyday contexts, using formal and informal registers as appropriate.

(LO3) Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the structures and registers of Portuguese.

(LO4) Demonstrate some knowledge and understanding of the cultures and linguistic contexts of the countries where Portuguese is spoken.

(LO5)  Critically reflect on and effectively apply language learning strategies.

(S1) Communication (oral, written and visual) - presentation skills - written.

(S2) Communication (oral, written and visual) - presentation skills – oral.

(S3) Communication (oral, written and visual) - listening skills.

(S4) Global citizenship - cultural awareness.

(S5) Improving own learning / performance - reflective practice.

Seminar:
The methodological approach is varied, with different classes teaching different skills. The Grammar classes will cover the principal grammatical functions of Portuguese in order to build a solid base from which to progress to a more advanced levels in the second and final years. The grammar classes will take the form of explanations of language functions and subsequent practice of what has been learnt. The Language Skills classes will help build vocabulary and develop skills in reading comprehension, listening and writing. These classes will also be integrated with the language functions being studied in the Grammar classes and will offer further opportunity for students to practice and consolidate them. The Oral classes will focus on practising speaking and interacting in Portuguese. The classes are intended to be as spontaneous as possible, and students are encouraged to participate actively. The tutor will prepare activities and role playing exercises around a speci fic theme or topic, and specific language functions.

The seminars consist of one grammar class, one language skills class and one oral class (conducted by a native speaker) per week.

Topics covered during the module will include:

Pronunciation and stress, accents, agreements;

The verbs Ser and Estar;

Definite and indefinite articles;

Asking and answering questions – affirmative and negative;

The present tense. Reflexive verbs;

Present continuous and Ir+Infinitive;

The present tense of irregular verbs;

Possessive pronouns. Demonstrative pronouns. Indirect object pronouns;

Degree of adjectives;

The preterite tense and the imperfect tenses.